MONTREAL — The city of Montreal is mourning the loss of two lives after a devastating hit-and-run incident that occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The victims have been identified as Michael Chintakis and Augustin Wesley Katimba, both in their early 30s, according to court documents.

The suspect in this tragic incident, Antoine Dubuc, 23, is scheduled to appear in court today. Dubuc is facing charges of dangerous driving causing death, fleeing the scene of a deadly collision, and impaired driving causing death.

Wesley Katimba, one of the victims, was a member of the Namibian diaspora, as confirmed by Namibia’s ambassador to the United States in a heartfelt Facebook post. He had just left a church service and was on his way home when the accident occurred in Montreal’s Ahuntsic-Cartierville borough, shortly after 1 a.m. on Monday. Tragically, Wesley Katimba had celebrated his birthday the day before, on December 31.

According to Montreal police, the suspect allegedly struck the two pedestrians at a high speed before fleeing the scene in his vehicle and ultimately abandoning it on foot.

The loss of these two lives has left the community in shock and grief. As investigations continue, Montreal is coming together to support the families and friends affected by this tragedy.

This news report by The Canadian Press was initially published on January 3, 2023.

The Canadian Press